Capitol News

Senator Joseph Bellino voted against Michigan’s fiscal year 2026 budget plan, expressing concern over increased taxes on businesses and significant cuts to local government funding.

Bellino stated, “I support increasing funding to fix our local roads and improve our schools so our children can succeed — but I cannot support a budget that makes devastating cuts to local governments and includes $960 million in increased taxes.” He explained his opposition further: “I voted against taking away tax relief that small businesses were going to get in Michigan as a result of President Trump’s tax reforms, and I voted no on a new 24% tax on marijuana that will lead to job losses across our state — especially in border communities. I also voted against cutting funding from our locals, which will jeopardize local services and public safety.”

He added, “While I strongly supported many of the priorities in this budget, I believe Michigan families and job providers deserve better.”

The proposed legislation includes House Bill 4706, which is the general omnibus budget for non-education segments of state government, and Senate Bill 166, which covers funding for K-12 schools, public universities, and community colleges in Michigan.